§ Mr. KINGasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he can give any information or explanation concerning the printed lists of questions recently served on farmers; why no reasons were given for the demand of the immediate filling up of the questionnaire which had in some cases to be given back completed in twelve hours; whether he is aware that many of the questions, especially concerning the history and record of employés, required much time and labour for an adequate answer; and whether all farmers throughout the countries have been required to fill up these question lists or only in certain cases or certain districts?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe census forms referred to in the hon. Member's question were sent out to every person occupying an agricultural holding of 5 acres or upwards in England and Wales. The object for which this census is required is to enable the War Office, in conjunction with the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries, to determine as to whether any more men can be taken off the land or not. It was not regarded as necessary to give any explanation on the form, and the difficulties referred to as regards filling in answers to certain questions do not seem to have seriously affected the speed with which the returns were received. The forms were all delivered to farmers on or before the 15th November, and up to date some 95 per cent. have already been delivered to the War Office.